DARLINGTON — The Darlington-Black Hawk wrestling team returns three of its five state-qualifying wrestlers from last season and looks to built on its 10-2 dual record.

A season ago, Owen Seffrood was a state runner up while Ethan Aird finished fourth. Breylin Goebel qualified but did not make the podium. These athletes are joined by eight other letter winners and six newcomers.

The Warbirds had a record season in 2021-22 and expect to continue the upward trend in 2022-23.

“Last year’s team set more school records than any team had in Darlington-Black Hawk school history,” head coach Riley Blair said. “The expectation this year is to build on that success. The team knows the standard. There is a ton of talent on this team. This year we look to exceed expectations.”

In its first week of practice, the Darlington-Black Hawk team has shown that it is ready for the season ahead.

“We have a team that isn’t afraid to go to battle and is detailed in its technique,” Blair said. “I have seen it already in the first week of practice. They are focused on getting better each and every day to put themselves in the best position to succeed.”

This work ethic is necessary to compete in the SWAL, where the team faces stiff competition from Fennimore and Mineral Point.

“The SWAL is the most competitive wrestling conference in the whole state in my opinion,” Blair said. “We have a stout run in December, facing 2022 state champions Fennimore and 2021 state champions Mineral Point right off the bat.”